THE INFLUENCE OF THE PATERNAL GENOTYPE ON THE IMMUNITY INDEX, IMMUNOGLOBULIN CONTENT IN DAUGHTERS’ COLOSTRUM, AND THEIR RESISTANCE TO DISEASES

The application of genomic testing enables the identification of breeding bulls that transmit enhanced immune resistance to their offspring. Genetic evaluation allows for the precise identification of animals with high immunological parameters, which, in turn, contributes to reducing disease incidence among progeny and improving the overall health status of the herd. A relatively low Immunity Index (96.5) and a significantly lower concentration of immunoglobulins in first-milking colostrum (50.21 mg/ml) were observed in the daughters of the breeding bull Majordomo 13353511. This sire transmits genetic traits associated with reduced immune resistance and increased susceptibility to disease. The highest values of the Immunity Index (105.67) and immunoglobulin concentration in first-milking colostrum (70.05 mg/ml) were recorded in the offspring of the breeding bull Elkhart 3148929453. The daughters of this sire demonstrated the lowest incidence of disease among the studied groups, indicating his effective transmission of genetic traits responsible for enhanced immune resistance. The results obtained offer promising opportunities for improving breeding programs through the targeted selection of bulls with high immune potential to enhance the overall health level of the herd.